Wahl, Sam 1970

Sam Wahl, Director of Public Works, discusses the Lubbock tornado of May 11, 1970, in relation to his job and how the emergency was dealt with in the Public Works Department.

General Interview Information

Interviewee Name: Sam Wahl

Additional Parties Recorded: None

Date: 1970

Location: Lubbock, Texas

Interviewer: Stan Valcik

Length: 50 minutes

Abstract

Tape 1, Side 1: Mentions assigned function during emergencies and daily responsibilities,
Discusses man and communication units out in field prior to and during tornado,
Water system in Lubbock reviewed,
Recalls damage to water systems from storm,
Applauds task force for responding to need,
Number of vehicles and field force counted,
Describes process of attempt to establish communication with force,
Actions taken to relieve water shortage,
Back-up personnel cited,
Describes process used to plug reservoir leaks.

Tape 1, Side 2: Rebuilding of power plant lines discussed and praised,
Speculative discussion raised about water availability for fires,
Mentions water brought in from Sand Hills station and regeneration of pumps,
Clearance of debris reviewed,
Assignment of volunteers discussed,
Recalls rash of flat tires from debris,
Restores continuity of time of events,
Notes improvements for actions in future disasters,
Mentions generators for emergency use,
Describe difference between daily operation and emergency operations.

Range Dates: 1970

Bulk Dates: 1970

Access Information

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Recording Format Notes:

Transcript:

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